Family: Acanthaceae

Originating from tropical America and the West Indies, this genus consists of 12 species of small, evergreen shrubs and perennials, sometimes included in the genus Jacobinia. The large leaves are distinctly veined and the large, attractive flowers are borne on thick, terminal spikes. They come in bright red, yellow or purple. The flower bracts are often more colourful than the flowers themselves.

Species

P. coccinea, cardinal's guard, is a small, bushy shrub, to 1.5 m (5 ft), with dark green leaves, 20 cm (8 in) long and about 10 cm (4 in) wide, and red flower spikes, to 15 cm (6 in).

P. lutea grows to 1 m (3 ft), with 15 cm (6 in) long leaves and shorter spikes of yellow and white flowers. This species is sometimes grown as a house plant.

Cultivation

Outside the tropics and subtropics, grow in a warm, humid greenhouse or conservatory, in pots of soil-based potting compost. Provide good light, but shade from strong sun. Trim lightly after flowering to maintain a good shape. Propagate from softwood cuttings, with basal warmth.

Climate

Warmest parts of zone 10 to tropical.